A Class A CDL allows you to drive semi trucks, buses, and other heavy vehicles professionally. It’s the most versatile of all Rhode Island’s commercial licenses, opening the door to a world of new career opportunities. However, in addition to passing an exam, you’ll also need to meet a set of medical and legal requirements to get your CDL license in RI.
Learn more about Rhode Island’s CDL requirements below, courtesy of an experienced Rhode Island trucking company.
What is Class A CDL?
In Rhode Island, you need a commercial driver’s license (CDL) to drive commercial vehicles transporting goods or passengers. For instance, a Class A CDL lets you operate a vehicle weighing 26,001 pounds or more, and tow cargo weighing 10,000 pounds or more.
Is Class A CDL Better Than Class B?
A Class A is more versatile than a Class B CDL license in Rhode Island. Therefore, with an endorsement, a person with a Class A license can also drive Class B and C vehicles, such as dump trucks, straight trucks, or small passenger vans.
Rhode Island CDL Requirements
To get a standard CDL in Rhode Island, you’ll need to meet the following criteria:
- Be a US citizen or a lawful permanent resident
- Be a Rhode Island resident
- One of the CDL driver license requirements is to have a valid Rhode Island driver’s license for at least two years, with no suspensions or revocations.
- Pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical from a certified medical examiner
In addition to meeting the base requirements, you’ll need to provide the following documents when you apply at the Rhode Island Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV):
- Proof of US citizenship or lawful permanent resident status
- Proof of Rhode Island residency
- A standard Rhode Island driver’s license, valid for at least two years
- A Social Security card
What Documents Count as Proof of Residency or Citizenship?
The Rhode Island DMV accepts any of the following documents to prove your citizenship:
- A valid US passport
- Your original birth certificate or a certified copy
- Consular Report of Birth Abroad (CRBA)
- Certificate of naturalization or citizenship from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
- Valid permanent resident card
What Are the Age Requirements for CDL?
You must be at least 21 years old to get a standard CDL, which allows you to drive in and out of state. However, you can also apply for a Rhode Island-only CDL at 18.
Can You Transfer an Out-of-State CDL in Rhode Island?
Yes. You can transfer a valid out-of-state CDL if you bring a driving record and meet the DMV’s other document requirements, including proof of citizenship, Rhode Island residence, and a valid medical exam certificate.
Medical Requirements for a CDL
Driving a large vehicle requires sharp senses, quick reaction times, and overall good health. So, the RI Department of Transportation requires commercial drivers to pass a medical exam.
The DOT’s medical exam is similar to a standard physical. The examiner will primarily test your eyesight, hearing, blood pressure, and cardiovascular health.
You’ll need to meet the following medical metrics to pass an exam:
- Have 20/40 vision in each eye, with or without glasses or contacts.
- Hear a “forced whisper” from five feet away, with or without a hearing aid.
- Have a blood pressure of 140/90 or lower
- Blood sugar lower than 200
Additionally, if you have a health condition that might impact your ability to drive, like heart disease or a seizure disorder, you’ll need a written letter from a doctor stating that you’re fit to drive. However, the examiner has some leeway to use their discretion.
If you pass, you’ll get a certificate valid for two years. If your blood pressure isn’t within the acceptable range, you may still pass with a certificate that expires sooner, such as one year after the exam date.
What Disqualifies You From Getting a CDL in RI?
Failing to meet any of the above standards can cause you not to qualify for a CDL or lose your license. Other factors that can impact your eligibility for a Class A CDL include the following:
- Failing to meet citizenship or residency requirements
- DWI/DUI or refusing to submit to a breathalyzer test
- Other serious traffic violations, like a hit-and-run
- Driving without an endorsement
- Use of illegal drugs
- Certain health conditions, such as epilepsy or uncontrolled diabetes
Testing for a Rhode Island Class A CDL
If you have all the required documents, pass a medical exam, and meet the other eligibility requirements, the next step is to pass your CDL tests.
The Class A CDL test consists of two parts, a knowledge exam and a driving skills test. You can learn more about what the tests involve and discover our favorite CDL training programs on our blog: How to Get a Class A CDL in Rhode Island.
Put Your RI Class A CDL to Work at a Rhode Island Trucking Company
If you’re interested in a steady career driving for a reputable Rhode Island trucking company, N&D Transportation is always looking for new drivers.
We offer full-time trucking positions with local routes, a full benefits package, and a welcoming work environment, so you can embark on a promising career in the trucking industry. Visit our careers page to explore current openings.
